The High Priest’s Blessing

The Bible tells us that when Christ ascended to heaven, he became the High Priest of all who come to him by faith. “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, NKJV).

Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. As long as you live, he will be your High Priest in heaven, interceding on your behalf, and will remain so until you go home to be with him. He is seated at the right hand of the Father, in the seat of authority. “We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens” (Hebrews 8:1).

Jesus is in the Father’s presence right now, interceding for us. He confronts our accuser and says, “I rebuke you, Satan. This one is mine because he is sprinkled in my blood. He is secure, and his debt is fully paid!” Yet I believe there is even more for us to learn.

It was the duty and privilege of the Old Testament high priest to come forth from the Holy of Holies and bless the people. The Lord instructed Moses, “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, ‘This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: ‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.’” (Numbers 6:23-26). After the high priest takes the blood into the Holy of Holies, sprinkles it on the mercy seat and waves the incense, he is to come out to the people and bless them.

This is the unchanging ministry of our High Priest. Jesus says, “I will cover you with my blood. I will intercede for you before the Father, and I will come forth and bless you.”

When the Old Testament priest spoke this blessing to the people he did not say, “I wish you peace. I wish the Lord to shine his face upon you.” No, the blessing was backed by the full power of God (see Numbers 6:27). Likewise, when Jesus our High Priest blesses, he does not just wish us good. He pronounces his blessing with authority, and it is done!